Daybreak Sleepout aims to raise $340,000 for homelessness services
Participants will spend the night outdoors to raise money for Daybreak services that support people experiencing homelessness.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Daybreak’s annual Sleepout aims to raise $340,000 to support homelessness services.
Middle Georgians are preparing to spend Thursday night sleeping outside in solidarity with people experiencing homelessness during the annual Macon Sleepout benefiting Daybreak.
Sister Deborah Mallott, director of Daybreak, says the event gives participants a small glimpse into the reality many face every day.
“People come out who aren’t normally homeless, and they sleep out in solidarity with those who live on the street,” Mallott said. “So they come and they stay in tents for one night just to experience what it’s like in a small way to be homeless. Of course one night can’t tell you what day after day is gonna be like, but it is an experience, and it’s become a community event.”
The event raises money that helps Daybreak cover everyday costs like food, showers, utilities, medical care and case management as the organization works to help people move into housing. This year’s fundraising goal is $340,000.
Alicia Neal, chief financial officer of Piedmont Macon and Piedmont Macon North, is serving as chair of the event committee. She says the funds raised are critical to keeping services running year-round.
“For this one night, when we come together and we raise these funds, it helps them get the dollars that they need to be operational for the year and provide these such needed services,” Neal said.
Neal says organizers have already raised about $230,000, with dozens of people registered to sleep outside. New this year, remote sleeping options are allowing more people to participate, including a site hosted by Piedmont Macon.
Malott says every donation makes a difference.
“The money that we raise at Sleepout goes a long way to help us with our general expenses here at Daybreak,” she said. “And we really need that help right now.”
The event will happen rain or shine, and organizers say anyone who cannot participate overnight can still support Daybreak through donations, volunteering or prayer.
Click here for more information, including a link to register.
